In the world of creative arts, opportunities for township and marginalized artists have often been stifled by systemic barriers, limited resources, and an industry that historically centers mainstream voices. Today, a new chapter begins, led by the visionary team behind We Are The Money and it’s founder, Dumisani Radebe, an unwavering advocate for township empowerment. This movement, backed by a coalition of creatives and anchored in communal strength, is rewriting the narrative through a strategic partnership with South Africa’s largest festival—Smoking Dragon Festival.
The First-of-its-Kind Collaboration: A Stage for Township Talent
For the first time in the history of the South African festival circuit, an independent, community-rooted movement will manage a main stage at Smoking Dragon. This New Year’s Eve spectacle will be curated by We Are The Money, making space for the raw, authentic, and often unheard voices from townships and rural areas. This groundbreaking collaboration is not just a symbolic step; it is an official alliance with a major, predominantly white-owned festival—a sign that the South African arts landscape is slowly opening its doors to new voices.
“This isn’t just about a night of performances; it’s about systemic change,” Dumisani Radebe shares. “It’s about showing that township artists can not only participate but lead and set new standards in the industry.”
Building a 5-Year Plan for Sustainable Creative Employment
At the heart of this collaboration is a vision that extends beyond the festival stage. The We Are The Money movement aims to establish a new, permanent employment mechanism over the next five years. This model will ensure ongoing work for artists, event planners, technicians, and other creatives, fostering a culture where local talent has consistent access to opportunities.
This strategic plan is about more than performing—it’s about cultivating an ecosystem where artists can thrive year-round. It envisions annual partnerships, a network of township-led creative hubs, and skill-sharing initiatives that teach and empower the next generation. Figures such as Ilsa Roberts have paved the way, supporting the nurturing environment needed for these initiatives to bloom.
Redefining Creative Opportunities for Marginalized Artists
What does this all mean for the average creative in Soweto, Khayelitsha, or Gqeberha? It means recognition, income, growth, and a tangible path toward artistic careers that were once just distant dreams. By holding this space at Smoking Dragon Festival, the movement is spotlighting the potential of marginalized artists on an international stage.
The festival is a starting point, but the impact aims to ripple out to other corners of South Africa, creating a circuit of events where township artists are celebrated, supported, and prioritized. It also shifts the festival landscape to recognize that investing in these communities enriches the broader creative tapestry of the country.
A Call for Support: Sponsorship and Innovation
To maintain momentum and transform this initiative into a longstanding tradition, We Are The Money invites like-minded sponsors and innovators to join the cause. With the right partnerships, this can be more than a one-off event—it can be the genesis of a new era in South African arts and culture. The support from sponsors will not only cover the logistical and administrative challenges but also provide a safety net that empowers artists without the burden of financial strain.
“This isn’t just about one festival; it’s about creating an employment structure that sustains artists, technicians, and visionaries for years to come,” Dumisani emphasizes. “We are proving that the arts in townships are not a charity case; they are an untapped reservoir of brilliance.”
The Countdown Begins: Ticket Sales and Support
As excitement builds for the Smoking Dragon Festival, ticket prices have seen an increase to R950 as of today. This investment goes beyond just experiencing a festival; it’s about supporting a movement that is laying the foundation for lasting change.
🎟️ Secure your tickets here: https://qkt.io/RedAlertAtSMD
Join us in supporting a transformative journey that not only celebrates the arts but redefines who gets to create, lead, and benefit from South Africa’s rich cultural landscape. With every ticket purchased, every partnership formed, and every voice raised, we are stepping closer to a future where the arts are for everyone, from the township streets to the world stage.
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